Twins break ground on Fla. spring training upgrade

The Minnesota Twins and Lee County have broken ground on $48.5
million in renovations at the team’s spring training complex in
Florida.

Groundbreaking was held Thursday at Lee County Sports Complex
and Hammond Stadium in Fort Myers, Fla.

The complex serves as the Twins’ spring training home as well as
the team’s year-round player development operations, including the
franchise’s Florida State League affiliate, the Fort Myers
Miracle.

The renovations will be completed in two phases. The first phase
includes a new residential player development academy, a new
parking lot and expanding stadium seating to 9,300. That phase
should be completed by spring 2014.

The second phase includes upgraded concourses and improved
concessions at Hammond Stadium by February 2015.